FUZZY MODUS-PONENS DEDUCTION TECHNIQUE FOR CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULING

This paper presents a new method to estimate the duration of construct ion activities. A model, Activity Duration Decision Support System (AD DSS). was developed. This model employs the fuzzy modus ponens deducti on (FMPD) technique to evaluate the impact of different factors on act ivity duration. The linguistic values of these factors are represented by angular fuzzy set models. The technique described in this paper al lows a scheduler to partially match an evidence with a rule. The use o f angular models demonstrates the use of a single and relatively simpl e fuzzy logic formula. The technique we developed does not require the scheduler to understand the underlying concept of fuzzy logic. In fac t, one needs only to input an assessment of factors that may affect th e completion of an activity. At this stage. ADDSS interfaces with the CA-SuperProject scheduling package. ADDSS was also developed to export and import data to and from the CA-SuperProject. Both the logic opera tions and angular models of ADDSS are elaborated. A step-by-step proce dure using ADDSS is presented, followed by case studies demonstrating the implementation of ADDSS in hypothetical and real construction proj ects. These cases show the practicality and applicability of ADDSS.